Microsoft is set to test its HoloLens-based combat goggles with the US military once again. The company recently announced that it will be delivering improved IVAS 1.2 devices to the Army before the end of July. These updated augmented reality models are sleeker, lighter, and better balanced, making them more comfortable for soldiers and enhancing their performance.
According to Bloomberg, two squads from the Army will test 20 prototype IVAS goggles in late August. The tests will evaluate the low-light functionality, reliability, and determine whether the goggles cause any discomfort for soldiers. In the past, some testers reported experiencing nausea, headaches, and eye strain, while others found the goggles too bulky, with a narrow field of view and a display glow that could potentially give away a soldier’s presence at night. Additionally, key features of the goggles often failed.
The ultimate goal of the HoloLens technology is to enhance battlefield awareness. With the IVAS goggles, infantry can see each other’s positions, access vital health statistics, and utilize inconspicuous night vision. This technology enables better coordination during assaults and can help identify signs of injury or fatigue. If the August test proves successful, the technology could be deployed in the field within a few years. The Army plans to award a contract for a second field study between July and September 2024, with the potential for an operational combat test as early as April 2025. Following that, the Army could deploy the IVAS goggles in the field.
However, the outcome of this test is crucial. Congress has already blocked further orders of the previous version of the goggles due to reported problems, and the Army could potentially spend up to $21.9 billion on up to 121,000 IVAS units over the next ten years. Microsoft received $40 million from politicians to address the hardware issues. If the problems persist, the Army may decide to cancel the program, resulting in significant financial consequences for Microsoft and raising doubts about the future of HoloLens. The mixed reality division has already faced setbacks, including the departure of lead developer Alex Kipman in the wake of misconduct allegations and significant layoffs earlier this year.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
